The phrase "spread abroad" is an idiomatic expression that means to disseminate information or news widely. In IPA phonetic transcription, "spread" is spelled /sprɛd/ and "abroad" is spelled /əˈbrɔd/. The "spr" sound in "spread" is a blend of the consonants /s/ and /p/, which are both voiceless. The "ab" sound in "abroad" is a combination of the schwa sound /ə/ and the voiced consonant /b/. Together, the two words create a crisp and unique sound that is easily recognizable.
The term "spread abroad" refers to the action of disseminating or propagating something widely or extensively, typically to a large number of people or across various areas. It implies the act of spreading or scattering something, such as information, ideas, news, rumors, or events, to a broad audience or numerous locations.
In a literal sense, "spread abroad" can be applied to physical objects or substances, particularly when they are distributed or dispersed over a wide area. For instance, it could be used to describe the scattering of seeds, pollen, or pollutants across different regions or landscapes.
Metaphorically, "spread abroad" often involves the transmission or distribution of non-tangible elements, such as knowledge, beliefs, or opinions. This can occur through different means like media channels, word of mouth, social networks, or any other form of communication that can reach a widespread audience.
The term also suggests a level of wide-scale or extensive dissemination, emphasizing the extensive coverage or range that the spreading process entails. It conveys the idea that information or events have reached various sectors, communities, or even different countries or continents.
Overall, "spread abroad" encompasses the act of making something widely known or accessible in a widespread manner, extending its reach beyond a limited or localized scope.
The etymology of the phrase "spread abroad" can be traced back to Old English and Old Norse origins.
The word "spread" comes from the Old English word "sprǣdan", which meant to extend, expand, or scatter. It further derived from the Proto-Germanic word "spraidijaną".
The word "abroad" originated from the Middle English word "abrod" or "abrodan", which meant widely or far and wide. This term was influenced by the Old Norse word "á breiðan" which had a similar meaning.
The combination of "spread" and "abroad" creates the expression "spread abroad", which implies the action of spreading or disseminating something widely or extensively.